Encountering the “Critical Process Died” error in Windows 11 can be a frustrating experience, as it often leads to system crashes. Here’s a detailed tutorial on how to troubleshoot and fix this error:
How to Fix Critical Process Died Error in Windows 11
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
- Restart System:
- Begin by restarting your computer. Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve temporary issues causing the error.
Step 2: Check for Windows Updates
- Update Windows:
- Ensure that your Windows 11 operating system is up to date. Open Settings (
Win + I
), go to “Windows Update,” and click on “Check for updates.” Install any pending updates.
- Ensure that your Windows 11 operating system is up to date. Open Settings (
Step 3: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
- Check RAM:
- Press
Win + R
to open the Run dialog, typemdsched.exe
, and press Enter. - Choose the option to restart your computer and check for memory problems. Windows will run a memory diagnostic on the next restart.
- Press
Step 4: Scan for Malware
- Run Windows Defender:
- Open Windows Security by clicking on the shield icon in the taskbar.
- Go to “Virus & threat protection” and run a full scan to check for malware or viruses.
Step 5: Check Disk for Errors
- Run CHKDSK:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator by right-clicking the Start button.
- Type
chkdsk /f
and press Enter. Allow the tool to scan and fix any disk errors on the next system restart.
Step 6: Update Device Drivers
- Update Drivers:
- Press
Win + X
and select “Device Manager.” - Check for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark, indicating a driver issue. Right-click and choose “Update driver” for each.
- Press
Step 7: Verify Recently Installed Software
- Check Recent Installs:
- If the error started after installing new software, consider uninstalling or rolling back the recent changes.
- Go to “Settings” > “Apps” and uninstall any recently installed applications.
Step 8: System File Checker (SFC) Scan
- Run SFC Scan:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type
sfc /scannow
and press Enter. Allow the tool to scan and repair corrupted system files.
Step 9: Check for Overheating
- Monitor System Temperature:
- Overheating can lead to critical errors. Ensure your computer is adequately ventilated, and use software tools to monitor CPU and GPU temperatures.
Step 10: Perform System Restore
- System Restore:
- If the error persists, perform a system restore to revert your system to a previous state.
- Open the Start menu, type “Create a restore point,” and select the result.
- Click on the “System Restore” button and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 11: Seek Professional Assistance
- Professional Help:
- If the error persists after trying the above steps, it’s advisable to seek assistance from a professional technician or contact Microsoft support for further guidance.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve the “Critical Process Died” error in Windows 11. If the issue persists, professional assistance may be necessary to identify and address more complex problems with your system.